The Next Big Thing In The Car Keys Cut Industry
Where to Get Car Keys Cut
Getting your car keys cut is a crucial service that will save you from a huge cost at the dealership. This will also keep you from being stuck when your keys break.
Modern keys have transponders that need to be programmed in order to work with the vehicle. Luckily the local AutoZone has the equipment to create these key replacements for a fraction of the price.
What kind of key do I require?
There are several different kinds of keys. The most basic is a traditional key, which doesn't contain any encoding or programming and is simply cut out of metal and fits inside to a lock. These keys are commonly used in older vehicles.
A four-sided or double-sided key is a more secure option and can be identified by having two or four sets of teeth on opposite sides of the blade. These keys are more difficult to pick and can help prevent break-ins as they require more strength to open the locks.
Another kind of key is a transponder that has a microchip which is programmed to start the car. This reduces the risk of theft since the key can only be used with a specific vehicle. Transponder keys are a little more expensive than traditional or mechanical keys, but they do provide additional security.
Most of the time, when you require a new key cutting locksmith near me, your local AutoZone store has the necessary parts and knowledge to do it quickly. All you need to do is provide them with the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle and they will take care of it for you.
Some modern vehicles have remote fobs that need to be programmed by the vehicle's computer with specialized tools and software. Many people ask their dealer for this service but it is not always necessary. You can also look online for aftermarket replacement keys/fobs that are available for much less than you'd find at a dealership. But before you start looking, it's important to note that these keyfobs can be compromised, so make sure you use a trusted source.
Where can I get car key cut a key cut for me?
Most auto locksmiths are able cut standard keys for cars. They will need to know the year, make and model of your vehicle in order to provide you with the correct key blank, which they cut using precision machinery on-site. However, some modern automobile keys, such as fobs, contain transponder chips built-in that require specialized programming for the specific vehicle. You might be able to get these types of keys copied by Home Depot or similar stores but they will not have the equipment to reprogram or clone the chip.
A typical key duplication procedure for a car key of the traditional type involves a person selecting the correct blank and positioning it against your current key to serve as an example. The key's original contours are traced by a machine to make duplicates. It's best to bring your original key in case it has a few minor scratches since they will be included in the new key.
Mister Minit stores are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate keys for a variety of cars. It is beneficial to have the year the make and model of your vehicle together with the remote fob or key to ensure that we choose the correct blank for your replacement key. Many stores can also program the new key if your vehicle is one with a push-button start feature.
What equipment do I need?
Modern ignitions require precision tools to ensure a perfect cut. Cutting the new car key is more complicated than simply copying one from an existing one and requires special equipment that is only available from authorized locksmiths, key cutters or hardware stores with the right tools to handle the task.
The key fobs of most vehicles sold in Australia are equipped with a transponder that must be programmed for your vehicle. This security feature was introduced in the 1990s to counter the increasing incidence of theft from cars in Australia. It is now standard on all new cars sold in the present.
This means that a spare or replacement key will have to be laser cut before being programmed for your specific vehicle which is a lengthy and costly process. Fortunately, most Mister Minit locations have the specialist equipment and expertise to complete this task for you and all you need is the current working key you wish to have duplicated and, if possible, the year, make and model of your car so that we can determine the correct code to program your new key.
It might be worthwhile Getting A Key Cut Near Me an extra key for your push-button start car. This key will have an electronic key fob that can be programmed separately to the car. The majority of Mister Minit shops can quickly and easily cut and program a replacement or spare key. All you have to bring is your car keys and, if it is possible, the year, makes and models of both keys, so that we can determine the key that has a transponder chip, and have it properly programmed to your car.
Can I cut my own key?
Many hardware stores and big box retailers provide the service of cutting keys for a fee. They employ machines that follow the original contours of your nearest key cutting to produce an exact duplicate. This is applicable to older keys with no chip. Modern automobiles require that the key fob be programmed. This is a difficult task that requires specialized equipment and knowledge. This type of work is better suited to locksmiths, who have access to the equipment and tools required.
You can also visit a kiosk that cuts keys, like the one operated by KeyMe. These are convenient, but they cannot cut all kinds of keys. Keys that are common can be copied, but other keys with special features must be sent to be processed. Make sure that you aren't trying to create a duplicate of a key with "Do Not Duplicate" on it. If this is the case, you'll have to call a locksmith for assistance.
A locksmith is more convenient when visiting your home or workplace. They can quickly cut keys and even reprogram your fob if necessary. You won't have to travel to the store and wait in an interminable line.
Dealerships are experts in automobiles however, they are not necessarily experts in keys. They have their own mechanics and interior technology experts, but the key-cutting process is not their area of expertise. Dealerships are large corporations which operate with strict guidelines to protect their bottom lines. They are accountable to car companies, who provide quarterly reports to shareholders and investors. These conditions do not lend themselves to providing good customer service when cutting car keys.
Where can I have a locksmith cut a key for me?
Locksmith companies are the best option. You can also have keys made at hardware stores or self-service kiosks. They are licensed, experienced and have the tools to duplicate the majority of keys. In addition, they can help you program a new car key fob or transponder chip.
The original key is used as a template to cut the majority of standard keys. A blank key is positioned on the opposite side, and both keys are moved across the cutter's specialized cutting machine, creating a copy of the original key. Certain types of keys like fobs and car keys require more time because they need to be programmed to your vehicle.
Certain keys bear a "do not duplicate" mark on them, but this is merely an extra measure to protect against unauthorised copying. However, this doesn't mean the key can't be copied however it could take longer as locksmiths will need to look over the key to ensure that it's not altered.
Other keys could be restricted, and require proof of ownership before they are cut or copied. This is usually due to the fact that they possess a unique mechanical characteristic or a strange shape. This is done to stop the keys from being used for stealing items or getting into secure locations.
For these keys, you will have to contact the local locksmith or go to their website to see whether they have the equipment and expertise to cut keys. If they do, you should expect to pay a bit more than a standard key cut at the hardware store or self-service kiosks, however it's cheaper and less stress-inducing than having to replace a lost car key.